Large fire in Kirwee contained, but Fire and Emergency issue warning
Photo: Ashley Butler
The fire at Kirwee has been contained with no loss of buildings or livestock.
Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Dave Berry said that seven helicopters and eight crews of firefighters are working on the fire today, supported by heavy machinery.
An aerial inspection this morning confirmed that there was had been no buildings damaged or livestock caught up in the fire, which has burned 80 hectares of pine plantation, scrub and some farmland beside the Waimakariri River.
Last night an estimated 10 properties on Old West Coast Road were evacuated as a precaution, while several other households self-evacuated.
This morning Fire and Emergency will provide an update for the evacuated residents at a community meeting in Kirwee at 11am. The meeting is at the Kirwee Community Hall.
Dave Berry said that today’s hot and windy weather will create extreme fire behaviour if any new fires start.
He asks everyone in Canterbury to take great care with any activities that could cause any sparks and start another fire.
Photo: Lee Hill
Roadblocks are currently in place to ensure the safety of emergency response operations, and the public is urged to avoid the area to allow firefighters, trucks, and machinery to maneuver safely.
Additionally, a drone flight ban is enforced near the fireground.
The strong smell of smoke across Christchurch is from the large fire in Kirwee. Amanda Rudkin. See the flames in the background.
Many residents in and around Christchurch will notice significant smoke this morning, with FENZ advising those closer to the fire to remain indoors and keep windows and doors closed to minimize smoke exposure.
